Page:The Emperor Marcus Antoninus - His Conversation with Himself.djvu/198

 18 other; For Generation and Corruption are no more than Terms of Reference, and Respect. Let these Reflections Satisfy you, and make them your Rule to Live by: As for Books, never be over-eager about them: Such a fondness for Reading will be apt to perplex your Mind, and make you Die Unpleas'd: Be sure therefore to Resign willingly, and go off in Good Humour, and heartily thank the Gods for what you have had.

IV. Remember how often you have postpon'd the minding your Interest, and slip'd those Opportunities the Gods have given you. 'Tis now high time to consider what sort of World you are part of, and from what kind of Governour of it you are Descended: That you have a Set Period assign'd you to Act in. And unless you improve it to Brighten and Compose your Thoughts, 'twill quickly run off with you, and be lost beyond Recovery.

V. Take care always to pursue the Business in Hand with Vigour and Application; Remember your self a Man and a Roman; And let the Action be done with all the Dignity and Advantage of Circumstance: Let unaffected Gravity, Humanity, Freedom, and Justice shine through it. And be sure you entertain no Fancys, which may give check to these Qualities. Rh